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Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces a new UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) collection featuring ZO&FRIENDS from the global character brand LINE FRIENDS. This collection is filled with the charm of the beloved characters, known by their catchphrase “Perfectly imperfect friends.”
ZO&FRIENDS continues to grow in popularity around the world. This collection features ZOA, a cloud cat who always takes it slow and appears aloof but is deeply caring, alongside A&NE, a lovable busybody whose warm and playful meddling brings a smile, and AKI and ZAKI, wild and unpredictable colorful bubbles born from ZOA’s footprints. The designs depict motifs from their everyday lives spent caring for each other.
Graphics to enjoy through different artistic expressions
The collection features watercolor-style images that make use of pastel hues, as well as suede-style prints illustrated with small dots that produce a three-dimensional effect. Four designs are available, marking the world’s first T-shirt collection to express the personality of these characters through a variety of different art styles.
SOURCES: UNIQLO
SOURCES: UNIQLO
Collection Overview
Launch date: 6th July 2026 (Monday)
Product lineup: WOMEN T-shirts, 4 designs, RM59.90 (tax included)
Store availability: The full UT lineup will be available at all stores across Malaysia, as well as on the Uniqlo.com online store.
For many Malaysian teenagers today, life without social media may seem almost unimaginable. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat have become central to how young people communicate, learn, entertain themselves, and stay connected with friends.
Yet following Malaysia’s new restrictions on social media access for those under 16, a question has emerged: what was childhood like before social media existed?
For older Malaysians, the answer often began outside the home
Long before notifications, likes, and endless scrolling, childhood was largely spent outdoors. Neighbourhoods would come alive in the evenings as children gathered to play football, badminton, police-and-thief, hide-and-seek, or simply cycle around with friends until sunset.
Parents rarely needed to track their children’s whereabouts through smartphones. Instead, the universal signal that it was time to return home was often the sound of a parent calling from the front gate.
Waiting was a normal part of life. Favourite shows aired at specific times, and missing an episode often meant waiting for a rerun. Patience was not a virtue — it was a necessity.
Friendships before feeds
Social interactions were also more intentional. Friendships were built through face-to-face conversations at school, community gatherings, sports activities, and family events.
Keeping in touch with friends often required a phone call on a landline or arranging plans in advance. There was no group chat to coordinate every detail in real time, and photographs were treasured keepsakes rather than content destined for public consumption.
Of course, nostalgia should not blind us to reality. A pre-social media childhood was not perfect. Information was less accessible, opportunities for self-expression were more limited, and young people had fewer platforms to showcase their talents or connect with communities that shared their interests.
Today’s digital tools have opened doors that previous generations could only dream of.
Yet many argue that growing up without social media offered something increasingly rare in the modern age: the freedom to make mistakes away from a public audience. Embarrassing moments were not recorded, shared, or preserved online indefinitely.
Childhoods unfolded in the moment rather than through a camera lenses.
As Malaysia adjusts to its new social media rules, it remains to be seen how young people will respond.
While few expect teenagers to abandon technology entirely, the restrictions may encourage a renewed appreciation for activities that once defined childhood—from sports and hobbies to simple face-to-face interactions with friends.
The reality is that no generation has experienced the perfect childhood. Older Malaysians grew up without the convenience and connectivity of today’s digital world, while younger generations navigate opportunities and pressures that did not exist before. Perhaps the challenge is not deciding which era was better, but finding a balance between the best of both worlds.
After all, while technology may have changed the way children grow up, the desire to learn, explore, connect, and have fun remains as timeless as ever.
Ever dreamed of stepping into the shoes of a zookeeper? Zoo Negara is giving animal lovers the chance to do just that through its exciting Keeperku programme, offering young Malaysians a rare behind-the-scenes look at life as a wildlife keeper.
Announcing the initiative on Facebook, the national zoo revealed that students aged 16 and above from schools, colleges, and universities can gain hands-on experience working alongside professional zookeepers and caring for some of the country’s most fascinating animals.
Zoo Negara Malaysia | Facebook
“Participants will assist our zookeepers with various tasks such as cleaning animal exhibits, preparing food and more. We hope this programme can raise awareness among young people about wildlife conservation efforts,” Zoo Negara shared.
But the experience goes far beyond feeding and caring for animals. Participants will also have the opportunity to contribute to various departments across the zoo, including Education, Public Relations, Customer Service, the Veterinary Hospital, and Park & Gardens, giving them a comprehensive glimpse into the many roles that keep Zoo Negara running every day.
Your Wild Adventure Awaits
Zoo Negara Malaysia | Facebook
The Keeperku experience runs every Thursday to Sunday from 8am to 12.30pm, giving participants a half-day immersion into the exciting world of wildlife conservation and animal care.
Registration is priced at just RM55, with proceeds going towards supporting Zoo Negara’s environmental and wildlife conservation programmes. Additional online processing fees apply.
Those eager to join the adventure are encouraged to register at least one week in advance to secure their spot. Whether you’re an aspiring veterinarian, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes at the zoo, this is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the animal kingdom.
Interested? Find out more about the Keeperku programme here!
Not too long ago, the average fitness goal for most Malaysians revolved around hitting a certain number on the scale or clocking a few kilometres on the treadmill. Today, however, a new fitness phenomenon is reshaping the local wellness scene — and its name is HYROX.
HYROX, widely acknowledged as a portmanteau of “Hybrid” (combining running and functional strength) and “Rockstar” (referencing the event’s energetic, high-performance nature), has rapidly evolved from a niche competition into a global movement.
Combining eight one-kilometre runs with eight workout stations, the event has attracted hundreds of thousands of participants worldwide and continues to expand into new markets.
The upcoming debut of HYROX in Kuala Lumpur this December is a testament to the sport’s growing appeal in the region.
But what exactly is fuelling the craze among Malaysians?
The answer lies in how HYROX bridges the gap between traditional gym workouts and competitive sports. Unlike marathons that cater primarily to runners or CrossFit competitions that can appear intimidating to newcomers, HYROX offers a challenge that feels both accessible and aspirational. Participants do not need to be elite athletes to take part. Instead, they simply need a willingness to train, improve and test their limits.
The trend also reflects a broader shift in how younger Malaysians view fitness. Increasingly, exercise is no longer just about weight loss or aesthetics — it is about community, personal achievement and shared experiences. Around the world, fitness events like HYROX are attracting people looking for connection, accountability and a sense of accomplishment beyond the gym floor.
Social media has undoubtedly played a role in amplifying the movement.
Videos of participants pushing sleds, conquering wall balls and crossing finish lines have turned HYROX into a highly shareable fitness milestone. Yet beneath the Instagram-worthy moments lies something more meaningful: a structured goal that motivates people to train consistently.
Perhaps the clearest sign of HYROX’s influence is how gyms have begun adapting to the trend. Internationally, gym owners have reported growing demand for HYROX-style training, with more facilities incorporating sleds, rowers, SkiErgs and functional fitness zones to cater to aspiring competitors.
As with any rapidly growing trend, questions remain over whether the hype can be sustained. Many argue that rising popularity risks turning the sport into a status symbol rather than a fitness challenge, while sold-out events and soaring demand have already become common talking points in some markets.
Still, if the enthusiasm among Malaysian fitness enthusiasts is any indication, HYROX is more than just another passing wellness fad. It represents a new era of fitness — one where competition, community and personal growth converge.
Whether participants are chasing podium finishes or simply aiming to complete their first race, HYROX is proving that for many Malaysians, fitness is no longer just a hobby. It is becoming a lifestyle.
When it comes to fashion pet peeves, many would agree that nothing is worse than sweating through your clothes because the weather is too hot. Unfortunately for us Malaysians, we can’t run away from the heat, so how can we still look our best, and more importantly, feel dry after a day out?
Enter UNIQLO. Amid some of the hottest days in Kuala Lumpur, UNIQLO sent over a few pieces from their AIRism collection for us to test out. So, for the past few weeks, we’ve been wearing the AIRism UV Protection High Neck T-shirt, the AIRism Bra Top and the AIRism Seamless Shorts to show you the best way to dress for the Malaysian heat.
SOURCE: UNIQLO
AIRism UV Protection High Neck T-shirt (Long Sleeve)
SOURCES: UNIQLO & HYPE MALAYSIA
We’ll start with the piece that many Malaysian Muslimah would be familiar with because either you’ve tried it or heard a fellow Muslimah raving about it on social media. Well, guess what? The hype is real. If you’re looking for a comfortable shirt that can be layered or worn as an inner, we have a few reasons this is the one you should reach for.
How We Styled It
For the High Neck T-shirt, we styled it as an inner, wearing it with other pieces from our personal collection. First, we paired it with a sleeveless slip dress with a low neckline. We also styled it with a loose sleeveless top with a boat neckline.
What We Love About It
Of course, the highlight of the AIRism collection is the DRY technology, which means moisture-wicking and deodorising properties that help us stay cool and dry in the hot Malaysian weather. We actually wore the shirt during our work commute, so there was a lot of walking and standing around waiting for the MRT and LRT (iykyk).
Despite wearing an extra layer of clothing, we felt comfortable even after all the movement and a full day of work. Bonus point: the UV Protection technology means we can wear our sleeveless shirts without worrying about being too exposed to the sun.
Additionally, with the way we styled the High Neck T-shirt, we loved how we could add coverage to sleeveless pieces and extend the wear for a variety of occasions. Funnily, the dress and top were actually items we rarely wore because of the lack of sleeves.
Thankfully, with the High Neck T-Shirt, we comfortably wear these pieces without worrying about showing our arms. Additionally, the material allowed us to layer our clothing without the bulk of a typical cotton T-shirt. The high-neck design also meant no worries for chest exposure when wearing looser clothing.
AIRism Bra Top (Long Sleeve)
SOURCES: UNIQLO & HYPE MALAYSIA
The next item we tested out was the AIRism Bra Top. Another highly raved product from the AIRism collection, this piece is known for its built-in bra for a seamless yet supported look. You’ve likely heard that many women are opting for this top over their usual t-shirt-and-bra combo, especially when it gets hot outside. Here’s why:
How We Styled It
We went the simple route with the Bra Top, styling it as we would a regular T-shirt, sans the undergarments. We wore it out to a video shoot, and later a mall, pairing the top with the Open Collar Oxford Shirt Dress from the UNIQLO and JW ANDERSON collection. We also tried wearing it as is, at home, as a pyjama top, paired with shorts.
What We Love About It
Like the High Neck T-Shirt, the Bra Top is also moisture-wicking and deodorising, so we felt cool and comfortable when wearing it around the mall. At one point, we did start to sweat through the shirt, but it didn’t take long for the material to dry and return to its “cool-to-the-touch” original form.
The built-in bra also meant we can just put on the shirt and go on about our day. There was no fussing around with bra straps and no worry about any visible bra line, thanks to the seamless look. The best part is that we still felt supported throughout our daily activities, or in our case, while setting up a whole video shoot.
We also love how breathable the top is. One of the reasons we decided to test the Bra Top as homewear is that Malaysian heat doesn’t discriminate between indoor and outdoor, so our house also gets pretty hot when the air-conditioning isn’t on. However, we didn’t heat up nearly as much when we wore the AIRism Bra Top at home, which allowed us to relax without worry.
Another item that has received much praise is the AIRism seamless shorts. You may not give a second thought to these unsuspecting pairs of undergarments. However, there is a reason they’re gaining popularity, with more women opting for these seamless drawers over traditional undies. If you’re a stickler for comfy panties, we might be able to convince you to make the change as well!
How We Styled It
For the Seamless Shorts, we actually paired them with-JUST KIDDING! We just wore it as we would our usual underwear, so no styling required!
What We Love About It
For as long as the Seamless Shorts have been part of UNIQLO’s catalogue, we’ve always heard about how comfortable they are, despite being so thin. Safe to say, we very much agree with this take. We love how nice they feel on our skin and how they practically disappear under our clothes, so no visible panty line.
Not going to lie, we were in disbelief when we realised that we couldn’t even feel the shorts over our bottoms. But thin doesn’t mean cheap material. These undies gave a lot more coverage than expected, and the stretch meant they provide quite the give to sit perfectly on our bodies.
And, of course, like every AIRism product, the Seamless Shorts are breathable and moisture-wicking. We wore these undies outdoors and at home, and they kept us feeling fresh the whole time. It gave us peace of mind and helped us stay comfortable down there during the heat.
In conclusion, the UNIQLO AIRism collection is a great addition to your wardrobe if you want to beat the hot Malaysian weather. However, the pieces in the lineup are more than just breathable and fast-drying. They can help prolong the wear, add more coverage, make you feel more secure and, most importantly, keep you comfortable.
On 2nd July 2026, thousands stepped into a carefully constructed world. At Unifi Arena Bukit Jalil, Laufey (pronounced Lay-vay) brought her “A Matter of Time”tour to life, inviting Kuala Lumpur to listen, to feel, reflect, and perhaps, as she gently suggested, “cry a little…the good kind.”
At first glance, Laufey’s rise might seem like a Gen Z revival story: a young artist making jazz and classical music feel relevant again. But, to reduce her to a trend would be to miss the point entirely. What unfolded that night made one thing clear; her success is not accidental nostalgia, but the result of rigorous craftsmanship rooted in classical discipline.
Image Credit : Nicole Mago
The Craft Behind the Whimsy
Laufey’s music has often been described as “bringing jazz back,” but what truly sets her apart is how seamlessly her classical foundations underpin everything she does. As a trained cellist, her understanding of music runs deep. That foundation was unmistakable throughout the performance.
Image Credit : Nicole Mago
Early into the show, she had already moved between piano, guitar, and cello with ease – a natural extension of her musical language. Her arrangements, especially in live performance, carried a richness that only comes from someone who has mastered the fundamentals. Crescendos built with intention, string sections swelled with emotional precision, and even the quietest moments felt meticulously placed.
This technical mastery allowed her to do something rare in pop: create a show where musical integrity is not sacrificed for spectacle but elevated by it.
A Stage Built on Time, Memory, and Imagination
The visual world of “A Matter of Time,” creatively directed by her sister Junia Lin, mirrored this balance between structure and fantasy. The stage transformed into a whimsical, multi-dimensional landscape – a ballroom, a clock, a carousel – each element reflecting the passage of time and the layered nature of Laufey’s music. Every visual choice felt like an extension of the music rather than a distraction from it.
Image Credit : Nicole Mago
Whimsy as Strength, Not Escapism
What defines Laufey’s artistry most, however, is her commitment to whimsy as intentional softness.
In an era often defined by irony and detachment, Laufey leans into sincerity. Her performance carried a sense of wonder that didn’t come from naivety. The world is complex, sometimes harsh, and yet choosing gentleness remains an act of strength.
This ethos was reflected in the audience as well. The “Lauvers,” as her fans are known, embodied that same energy. It wasn’t the loudest crowd, but it was one of the most attentive: singing along in unison, exchanging smiles, helping each other capture memories. Strangers became temporary companions, bound by a shared appreciation for something softer.
From Ballroom to Jazz Club
The show unfolded in acts, each with its own emotional and musical identity. In Act II, Laufey welcomed the audience into her “jazz club,” transforming the B-stage into an intimate space where her older songs were reimagined with swing and improvisation.
Image Credit : Nicole Mago
Transitions between acts were marked by jazzy interludes, reinforcing the continuity of her musical language. Whether performing heartbreak ballads or more upbeat numbers like “Tough Luck,” she maintained a sense of cohesion that tied the entire show together.
And when she stripped things back; just her and the piano on songs like “Promise,” the effect was magnetic – the scale of the arena disappeared.
Bridging Generations
Laufey’s broader impact lies in her ability to bridge worlds. She is part of a wider cultural shift where “old” is becoming “new” again – vinyl records, analogue habits, handcrafts like sewing and crocheting. But rather than reviving aesthetics, she recontextualises them.
Through her music, classical and jazz traditions are lived, reshaped and made more accessible, rather than preserved as relics. She doesn’t present herself as an authority to be revered, but as a guide inviting others in. Her approach is casual, generous, and inclusionary.
Image Credit : Nicole Mago
This philosophy extends beyond performance. Through initiatives like her foundation, “The Laufey Foundation” she has expressed a clear mission: to make music education more accessible and to ensure that future generations have the same opportunities she did.
A Night That Lingers
By the time the final notes of “Sabotage” rang out and the encore carried the audience through “Letter to My 13 Year Old Self,” the emotional arc of the night felt complete. It was a performance about time; past, present, and future; about identity and persistence.
Image Credit : Nicole Mago
At one point, Laufey remarked, “We need more artists. We need more humans making music.” It was a simple statement, but one that echoed long after the concert ended.
“A Matter of Time” was a reminder that technical excellence and emotional sincerity can coexist. That softness is not a weakness. And that even in a fast-moving world, there is space to pause, feel deeply, and keep going with your “silly dream.”
And perhaps that is Laufey’s greatest achievement — not just making classical music cool again, but making it feel necessary.
This concert was presented by Live Nation Malaysia; whose 2026 calendar is already stacked, with a mix of returning favourites and major international acts including Kodaline, Post Malone, The Weeknd, BTS, and more. For updates, releases, and upcoming shows, stay tuned to Live Nation and follow Hype for the latest in entertainment coverage.
There’s a reason they’re called feel-good movies. From making us laugh and cry to reminding us of the importance of family, friendship, and kindness, these films have a special way of lifting our spirits and putting us in a better mood.
If you’re planning a family movie night this weekend, why not revisit some classic favourites from your childhood? These timeless films have warmed hearts for generations and are just as enjoyable for today’s children as they were for their parents growing up.
Here are 6 wholesome, classic movies to enjoy with your children this weekend:
Paulie (1998)
IMDb
Before talking animals became commonplace in family films, there was Paulie. The charming movie follows a talking parrot who embarks on an extraordinary journey to reunite with the young girl he loves. Filled with humour, adventure, and lessons about loyalty and friendship, it’s a hidden gem that deserves far more recognition.
The Parent Trap (1998)
IMDb
This beloved family comedy sees long-lost twin sisters discover each other at summer camp before plotting to reunite their divorced parents. Packed with laughs, sibling mischief, and heartwarming moments, it’s a film that both parents and children can enjoy together.
Babe (1995)
IMDb
A pig who dreams of becoming a sheepdog may sound unusual, but Babe remains one of the most uplifting family films ever made. The story teaches children about kindness, perseverance, and believing in themselves, regardless of what others expect.
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993)
IMDb
Few movies capture the bond between pets and their families quite like Homeward Bound. When two dogs and a cat become separated from their owners, they embark on an epic journey home. Expect adventure, laughter, and perhaps a few tears along the way.
Fly Away Home (1996)
IMDb
When a young girl adopts a flock of orphaned geese, she embarks on an extraordinary journey to teach them how to migrate. Inspired by a true story, this uplifting film celebrates determination, family, and the bond between humans and animals.
Free Willy (1993)
IMDb
A troubled young boy forms an unlikely friendship with a captive orca whale named Willy and becomes determined to help him return to the ocean. Filled with heart, adventure, and themes of compassion and freedom, Free Willy is a timeless family favourite that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
While modern blockbusters may come and go, these classics have remained beloved for decades because of their universal themes and enduring charm.
Whether you’re introducing them to your children for the first time or revisiting a childhood favourite, these films offer the perfect opportunity to slow down, gather the family, and enjoy a feel-good movie night together.
